Timi Hansen , former bassist for Mercyful Fate , has died at age 61 after a battle with cancer. The news was confirmed by King Diamond in a Facebook post.
“I just found out that I lost one of my dearest friends who had been battling cancer for a long time and in a very courageous way. He wasn't just my roommate on Mercyful Fate tours, he was always my all-time favorite bassist,” said the vocalist.
“I was very lucky to have had the opportunity to visit him, we had an incredible afternoon that I will never forget. The last time I spoke to Timi on the phone was on October 24th. And I couldn't understand how things were even harder than they already were, and yet he said: 'we keep fighting'. I feel very sad for his family. They have my deepest sympathies. Rest in peace, my friend.”
Hansen revealed he was battling cancer in August of this year, following the announcement of Mercyful Fate's reunion scheduled for 2020. With the bassist undergoing treatment, Joey Vera was to tour with the group until Hansen recovered. Now, it is expected that he will take over the position for all scheduled shows.
Rest in peace, Timi Hansen.
